Thomas Hobbes: 'I put for the general inclination of all mankind, a perpetual and restless desire of power after power, that ceaseth only in death.'

I put for the general inclination of all mankind, a perpetual and restless desire of power after power, that ceaseth only in death.

In his quote, Thomas Hobbes asserts that all individuals possess an inherent drive for power that persists until their death. This statement encapsulates the perpetual and restless nature of human ambition, highlighting the ceaseless pursuit of power as a fundamental inclination of mankind. Hobbes' profound observation offers valuable insight into the human condition and provides a framework for understanding the motivations behind our actions and aspirations.The significance of Hobbes' quote lies in its ability to shed light on the universal desire for power that seems embedded within the fabric of human existence. This longing for power manifests in various forms, such as the pursuit of wealth, social status, influence, or control over others. It is a restless desire, one that propels individuals to continuously strive, yearning for more power, even when they have already achieved a certain level of success.One way to approach this quote is by introducing an unexpected philosophical concept—the idea of power not as an external force to be obtained, but as an internal state of being. This concept challenges traditional notions of power as something to be grasped externally, and instead emphasizes the potential for individuals to cultivate power within themselves.Contrasting the traditional view of power with this alternative perspective, we can explore how the perpetual and restless desire for power may be redirected towards personal growth, self-discovery, and the realization of one's true potential. Rather than seeking power as dominance over others, individuals can embark on a journey of self-mastery, self-awareness, and the expansion of their own capabilities.This alternative approach to power aligns with the ideas of philosophers such as Friedrich Nietzsche, who advocated for the cultivation of individual power through the development of one's own unique strengths and virtues. Nietzsche believed that true power lies not in the domination of others, but in the expression of one's authentic self and the pursuit of personal excellence.By juxtaposing Hobbes' observation with Nietzsche's philosophy, we can delve into a deeper exploration of power and its implications. While the former highlights the perpetual desire for external power, the latter offers an opportunity to transcend this restless pursuit and instead focus on the internal cultivation of power.In this context, power becomes a vehicle for personal transformation, enabling individuals to unleash their creative potential, shape their destinies, and contribute meaningfully to the world. Rather than viewing power as a zero-sum game, where one person's gain necessitates another's loss, this alternative perspective allows for the harmonious coexistence and collaboration of empowered individuals.Ultimately, Hobbes' quote provides a thought-provoking foundation for contemplating the complexities of human nature and our eternal quest for power. By exploring the concept of power from both traditional and alternative perspectives, we can broaden our understanding and envision a world where the perpetual desire for power finds fulfillment not in external dominance, but in the realization of our true potential as individuals and as a collective.